Tegan | From Volunteer to Career

My name is Tegan and I have been part of the Camphill Blair Drummond Community since September 2022. After completing my Psychology degree at the University of Lincoln, I took a post-graduate gap year and joined the community as a "International" Volunteer - travelling from a far away country most of you have probably never heard of…England!

I stumbled across Camphill Blair Drummond at a point in my where life where I was unsure what the next chapter would look like. Camphill’s community spirit and pride

immediately drew me in. Upon my arrival to Camphill, I settled into community life quickly, building long lasting friendships and rapports. Camphill became a home away from home; an inviting place that gave me a sense of belonging.

I often reflect on the fun memories I had as a volunteer. A handful of memories that spring to mind include organizing and hosting community events, making a fool of myself in Media projects, experiencing the beauty of the Scottish Highlands, chaotic water fights, birthday celebrations, and cozy campfires. Not only has Camphill provided me with such poignant memories, it has also allowed me to learn so much about myself. Camphill has supported me to challenge myself, develop new skills and more than anything else, build forever friendships with people from all over the world.

As my volunteering year drew to a close, I had a growing realisation that I wasn’t ready to leave. It was in the ordinary, everyday moments - sharing meals, laughing through the chaos of busy days, or simply feeling at ease in the presence of others that something shifted. I felt an attachment to Camphill; the place, the people, and the values. Leaving did not feel like the natural next step, instead, staying did. I realised I still had more to give, more to learn, and more to experience within the community.

At first, I was prepared to take on a second year of volunteering but soon found myself wanting more responsibility, both within the residential setting and across the wider community. This led to me applying for a role as a Residential Support Worker! I have since spent time working in Garden House and currently Tourmaline.

Choosing to stay has felt like a commitment not only to the community, but also to my own growth within it. Stepping into an employee role has a brought a different perspective and a deeper sense of responsibility, but has allowed me to continued building on the relationships and experiences I had already formed. Staying has meant becoming more rooted, more involved, and more invested in the life of the community, rather than it being something I simply look back on. It is a privilege to be a part of the Camphill community and to watch it develop and grow.